The first phase of a comprehensive smoking ban in public places goes into effect. As of 1 February 2007 it will no longer be possible to smoke in workplaces, schools and hospitals.

On 1 January 2008, the ban’s second phase will be set in motion and will include restaurants, bars and discotheques. Smokers will face fines of  € 68 (US$ 88) for lighting up where it is not permitted and business owners will be fined € 135. Companies may provide separate, closed smoking rooms with extractor fans, but few are expected to install the costly systems.
The ban affects one-third of France’s adult population. The first phase of the ban is largely seen as a test ahead of next year’s complete ban on smoking in public places. The decree goes one step further than a 1991 law, which banned cigarettes in many places such as train stations and airports but still permitted designated smoking areas. (pi)